Fried Chicken

Fried Chicken is a medium American recipe that serves 4. 520 calories per serving. Recipe by Nick DiGiovanni on YouTube.

Prep: 20 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 50 min

Cost: $8.30 total, $2.08 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 lb Chicken Pieces (Bone‑in, skin‑on thighs and drumsticks)
  • 1 cup Buttermilk (Full‑fat for best flavor)
  • 0.25 cup Pickle Juice (From dill pickles, adds tang)
  • 2 tbsp Hot Sauce (Your favorite hot sauce, adjust for heat)
  • 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar (Balances acidity)
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt (Seasoning for brine)
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly ground)
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Adds depth to dredge)
  • 1 tsp Paprika (Smoky flavor for coating)
  • 2 cup All-Purpose Flour (Sifted, for dredging)
  • 2 cup Vegetable Oil (High smoke‑point oil for deep frying)

Instructions

  1. Make the Brine

    In a large mixing bowl whisk together buttermilk, pickle juice, hot sauce, sugar, and 1 tsp kosher salt until fully dissolved.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Marinate the Chicken

    Add the chicken pieces to the brine, ensuring they are fully submerged. Transfer the bowl to a zip‑top bag, seal, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to overnight for more flavor).

    Time: PT30M

    Temperature: 4°C

  3. Prepare the Dredge

    In a shallow dish combine sifted flour, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Dredge the Chicken

    Remove chicken from the brine, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, pressing lightly to adhere. Shake off any excess flour and place on a plate.

    Time: PT5M

  5. Heat the Oil

    Pour vegetable oil into the skillet to a depth of about 1‑1.5 inches. Heat over medium‑high until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C). Use the thermometer to check.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 350°F

  6. Fry the Chicken

    Working in batches, carefully lower 2‑3 pieces into the hot oil. Fry for 6‑8 minutes per side, or until the coating is deep golden‑brown and the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).

    Time: PT15M

    Temperature: 350°F

  7. Rest and Serve

    Transfer fried chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
520
Protein
30g
Carbohydrates
30g
Fat
25g
Fiber
1g

Dietary info: High protein, Contains gluten, Contains dairy

Allergens: Dairy, Gluten

Last updated: April 6, 2026

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Fried Chicken

Recipe by Nick DiGiovanni

A crispy, juicy fried chicken with a tangy, spicy buttermilk‑pickle juice brine. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of buttermilk, pickle juice, hot sauce and a touch of sugar, then dredged in seasoned flour and fried to golden perfection. Perfect for a hearty dinner or a crowd‑pleasing party dish.

MediumAmericanServes 4

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Source Video
55m
Prep
15m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 20m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$8.30
Total cost
$2.08
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Ensuring the brine is well‑mixed and the chicken is fully submerged.
  • Maintaining oil temperature at 350°F throughout frying.
  • Avoiding overcrowding the pan to keep the crust crispy.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can cause severe burns – use long tongs and keep a lid nearby for emergencies.
  • Never leave the skillet unattended while oil is heating.
  • Use a thermometer to avoid overheating the oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of fried chicken in Southern American cuisine?

A

Fried chicken is a cornerstone of Southern comfort food, tracing its roots to Scottish frying techniques and African enslaved cooks who added seasonings and spices. Over time it became a symbol of hospitality and celebration in the American South.

cultural
Q

What regional variations of fried chicken exist within American cuisine?

A

In the South, buttermilk‑marinated chicken is classic; Nashville hot chicken adds a fiery cayenne coating, while Korean fried chicken uses a thin batter and sweet‑spicy glaze. Each region tweaks the brine, seasoning, or sauce to create a distinct flavor profile.

cultural
Q

How is fried chicken traditionally served in the Southern United States?

A

It is often served with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, biscuits, and sweet tea. The chicken may be presented on a platter with lemon wedges for a bright finish.

cultural
Q

During what occasions is fried chicken traditionally enjoyed in Southern culture?

A

Fried chicken appears at family gatherings, church potlucks, holidays like Thanksgiving, and community festivals. Its hearty nature makes it a favorite for celebrations and casual get‑togethers.

cultural
Q

What authentic ingredients are essential for traditional Southern fried chicken?

A

Key ingredients include bone‑in chicken, buttermilk for the brine, seasoned flour (often with paprika, garlic powder, and pepper), and a high‑smoke‑point oil for frying. Pickle juice and hot sauce are modern twists that add tang and heat.

cultural
Q

What other Southern dishes pair well with spicy buttermilk fried chicken?

A

Classic pairings are creamy mac and cheese, collard greens, cornbread, and a simple cucumber salad. A cold, crisp beer or sweet iced tea balances the heat.

cultural
Q

What makes this spicy buttermilk fried chicken unique compared to standard Southern fried chicken?

A

The addition of pickle juice and hot sauce to the buttermilk brine introduces a tangy, spicy depth that cuts through the richness, while a touch of sugar balances the acidity, creating a more complex flavor profile.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making spicy buttermilk fried chicken?

A

Common errors include not chilling the brine long enough, frying at the wrong oil temperature, and overcrowding the pan. Each of these leads to soggy coating or uneven cooking.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use a buttermilk‑pickle juice brine instead of a plain buttermilk soak?

A

The pickle juice adds acidity and a subtle dill flavor that tenderizes the meat faster, while the hot sauce contributes heat. Together they create a more vibrant taste than a simple buttermilk soak.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Nick DiGiovanni specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Nick DiGiovanni focuses on creative, high‑energy cooking tutorials that blend classic techniques with modern twists, often featuring bold flavors, quick‑prep meals, and detailed explanations for home cooks.

channel

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